As a dog owner, it can be difficult to imagine leaving your furry friend behind. However, when the need to travel arises, you have a few options as to where you board your beloved canine. Pet boarding is a wonderful option as it provides a safe space for your dog to run and play while being monitored and nurtured simultaneously. Some dogs experience separation anxiety that makes their overnight stay a bit more stressful. As the owner, it’s up to you to know how to prepare your dog for the time away. 

3 Tips for Preparing an Anxious Dog for Pet Boarding

1. Prepare Them Ahead of Time

Dogs are creatures of habit, so, if they are used to being allowed to sleep with you or spend most of their day on the couch, they might have a tougher time adjusting to the schedule at the pet boarding facility. A week before you leave, make some adjustments to your dog’s daily routine, including having them sleep alone and spending some time in a kennel, if you have one. This will allow for a less-shocking transition when you drop them off later. 

2. Try a Trial Run 

If you’re not sure how your pet will fare at a boarding clinic, try a short trial period. A single night away can give your dog a bit more of a feel of what to expect, and, when you drop them off for a longer period of time, they won’t be as worried. Make sure to board them temporarily at the same place you plan to keep them for an extended stay. This way, they’ll get a chance to meet the staff. 

3. Pack Reminders of Home

An anxious dog can be easily soothed by the scent of their owner, even if they aren’t present. Before you drop off your dog, make sure that you’ve packed a few toys or even a sweatshirt that you’ve worn to transfer your scent. This will make for a comforting bedtime companion while you’re away and help ease some of their anxiety until you return. 

Boarding your pet doesn’t have to be stressful for you or your dog. In Prairie Du Chien, WI, dog owners look to Tender Care Animal Hospital for trustworthy, compassionate boarding services. With a seasoned veterinarian on staff and a team of passionate animal enthusiasts, you can be confident your pet is cared for while you’re away. To learn their pet boarding times, visit them online or call today at (608) 326-7101.